South Africa draws with Czech Republic, keeps World Cup knockout hopes alive
via The Namibian2 min read
South Africa secured a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Atlanta, maintaining their aspirations for the World Cup knockout stages. Michal Sadilek opened the scoring for the Czechs, but Teboho Mokoena equalized for South Africa with a late penalty, marking the nation's first World Cup goal in 16 years. Both teams now have one point in Group A, trailing co-hosts Mexico and South Korea. South Africa will next face South Korea, while the Czech Republic will play Mexico. This result keeps both teams in contention for the last 32, though they will likely need to win their final group matches to advance. South Africa, under coach Hugo Broos, is making its fourth World Cup appearance and has never progressed beyond the group stage.
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Real Madrid has moved to reinforce its squad for the 2026/27 campaign following the hiring of Jose Mourinho as coach. The club signed Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva, and Ibrahima Konate after two seasons without a major trophy. Cucurella, a left-back from Chelsea, was acquired for approximately 55 million euros. Mourinho reportedly expressed his eagerness to work with Cucurella, who is expected to bring intensity and energy to the team. Bernardo Silva, arriving from Manchester City, is anticipated to improve midfield control and build-up play, offering experience and versatility. Konate, a center-back from Liverpool, will strengthen the defense, an area where Real Madrid has faced challenges due to injuries. Konate's form last season was reportedly impacted by personal tragedies. Real Madrid is also reportedly pursuing other players, including Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries, Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, and Bayern Munich's Michael Olise. The club also made a 150 million euro offer for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, which was reportedly more to fulfill a campaign pledge and disrupt rivals' plans. More transfers are expected as Mourinho identifies further targets for the upcoming season.
Cristiano Ronaldo's performance in Portugal's 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo has sparked debate, with critics questioning his continued role in the starting lineup. Despite being a peripheral figure in the match, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez kept the 41-year-old captain on the field for the entire game. Ronaldo's 25 touches were his fewest in a major tournament match for Portugal when playing the full game, contrasting sharply with Lionel Messi's recent hat-trick for Argentina. Martinez defended his decision, stating that Ronaldo's experience and goal-scoring ability are crucial when the team needs goals. However, former France striker Thierry Henry accused Ronaldo of being selfish after he intercepted a pass intended for Bruno Fernandes. Opposition midfielder Ngal鈥檃yel Mukau commented that Ronaldo is "no longer the same player as before and that he鈥檚 older now." Pundits, including former Premier League striker Chris Sutton, criticized Martinez for not substituting Ronaldo, suggesting the coach was afraid to drop him. Alternatives like Goncalo Ramos are available, yet it is anticipated Ronaldo will start Portugal's next match against Uzbekistan.
The Frank Fredericks Foundation is developing a sport and playground facility in Outjo, aimed at providing a safe space for youth recreation and talent development. The proposed facility will include a five-a-side soccer pitch, a netball court, and various playground equipment. According to the foundation, this project is an investment in the well-being and sporting future of Outjo's children, and a gesture of appreciation from founder Frank Fredericks to the community for naming a street after him. Outjo spokesperson Kizzy Dudu-Murorua stated that the facility will encourage physical activity, reduce health risks, and foster teamwork and discipline. She also highlighted that the project will create job opportunities for Outjo residents. Dudu-Murorua mentioned Outjo's existing well-maintained sport facilities and plans to expand further by introducing basketball, swimming, and indoor courts, as well as a running track. The municipality has engaged the governor鈥檚 office for funding support for these upgrades under the National Sport Infrastructure Framework. Although Outjo is not directly earmarked for the national initiative, the council has presented its case for facility upgrades, anticipating a positive response. Dudu-Murorua emphasized the importance of external partners, such as government offices and the private sector, in providing financial support and expertise. She also reflected on Outjo's experience hosting the 2025 Newspaper Cup, which showcased the town's capabi